I just got back from a XJ trip w/ my buddy. I repped the WJ well and managed to keep her moving where other stock XJs got stuck.

The issue I had was coming over hills and up steep ledges. The bottom cross member would scrape. Thus, it indicates it's time for a lift. This is my DD and I drive 70 highway miles a day. With that said, I really like this lift:

and then add the 3/4" spaces in the front to leave the jeep out.
depending on how many miles you have might need to replaces a bushing if you get a DW.

am in the same situation as you and i want the 2.5 lift just don't like the shocks.
dont forget to armor up underneath, a $50 can save you a big bill if you hit something with a rock.

any photos of teh trip

You said I might need to replace the bushings if you get a DW. Sorry for the newb question, what's DW?

If there's nothing awful w/ that kit, I think I'll end up getting it. Then ride the shocks until they're no good. At least I know what I'll be getting.

Along with the lift, I'm getting rock sliders and a TC skid plate.

Since I was taking the pictures, I don't have any of my Jeep (just a stock WJ). Here's everything I took. These were from the "green run" that was for anything down to stock. I must say, I was AMAZED with what my stock Jeep could do.

You said I might need to replace the bushings if you get a DW. Sorry for the newb question, what's DW?

If there's nothing awful w/ that kit, I think I'll end up getting it. Then ride the shocks until they're no good. At least I know what I'll be getting.

Along with the lift, I'm getting rock sliders and a TC skid plate.

Since I was taking the pictures, I don't have any of my Jeep (just a stock WJ). Here's everything I took. These were from the "green run" that was for anything down to stock. I must say, I was AMAZED with what my stock Jeep could do.

sorry DW means death wobble http://jeep.us41.org/dictionary/index.htmldeath wobble - following a suspension lift, sometimes a Jeep will begin to have stability problems at particular speeds especially after hitting a bump or a pothole where the steering wheel will begin to vibrate quite violently. If the Jeep is slowed down, the vibrations may stop. This is called death wobble, and it is usually corrected by tightening steering components and replacing some with aftermarket products that are adjustable. Also, tire balancing has been known to correct the issue.

am looking into the 2.5" lift so if you want i can post what i find out in a few days.
most people go 2" since the coils are made by BSD and there a good brand.

nice shots. stock these WJ are pretty good.
i took mine with front mopar tow hooks, rear recovery, mopar TC skid and my running boards on a trail. hit the cross member a few times and scarped a bit under but did good on teh green trail. some photos here http://www.njjeep.org/C4C2010Green2.html its the sliver WJ